LaReta Morrel's Obituary
LaReta Rae Morrel
December 14, 1940 – April 8, 2026
LaReta Rae Morrel was called home to be with her Lord and Savior on April 8, 2026, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Born on December 14, 1940, in Lawton, Oklahoma, she was the daughter of Etta and Floyd Martin, whose guidance and steadfastness shaped her life.
She was raised in Wellston, Oklahoma, alongside her older sister, Sue, and younger brother, Quinton, with whom she shared a love of family genealogy. There, surrounded by family and dear friends, including the Christy family, and the Wellston Church of Christ community, LaReta’s faith took root and remained central throughout her life. She carried a quiet confidence, trusting that “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want” (Psalm 23:1).
After graduating from Wellston High School, LaReta attended Central State College in Edmond, Oklahoma, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Home Economics and met the love of her life, Reece B. Morrel. They were married on August 6, 1960, and shared 62 blessed years of marriage. Together, they built a home firmly rooted in faith and love, raising their son, Reece, Jr., and daughter, LaRhea, believing the words, “Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him, and He will act” (Psalm 37:5).
LaReta demonstrated her faith through kindness, humility, and service. A devoted wife, mother, and cherished Nana, she instilled in her family a lasting assurance in God’s presence and guidance, as written: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths” (Proverbs 3:5–6).
For over 40 years, she served in children’s ministry and led a weekly ladies’ Bible class, encouraging and guiding others through her steady commitment to His Word. She found great joy in creating a library and bookstore at Garnett Church of Christ, a lasting reflection of her love for learning and sharing God’s Word.
Reece and LaReta were known for their hospitality and annual parties, from the invitations to the decorations—but LaReta’s food was always the highlight. In her kitchen, family and friends were always welcome. Later in life, she continued to pursue her passion, attending the Culinary Institute in Napa Valley, California. She passed on her love of cooking to her granddaughters, creating memories filled with laughter, patience, and lots of flour. As written on the wall of LaReta’s kitchen, “Kissing don’t last. Cooking do.”
In lieu if flowers, the family requestz donations be made to the Little Light House, Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Her absence is deeply felt, but her family finds peace in knowing she rests with the Lord she loved. Her legacy lives on in those she shaped and the faith she passed down. As written in the Psalms, “You will make known to me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore” (Psalm 16:11).
She was preceded in death by her husband, Reece B. Morrel, and her granddaughter, Rachel Courtney Morrel.
She is survived by her children, Reece B. Morrel, Jr. and his wife, Dana, and LaRhea Dallis and her husband, Danny; her grandchildren, Logan Dallis and his wife, Schelby, Alayne Morrel, and Hannah Morrel; her sister, Sue Morrel and her husband, Jim; her brother, Quinton Martin and his wife, Helen; and many precious nieces and nephews.
A family graveside service will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Floral Haven Memorial Gardens, where she will be laid to rest beside her husband.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026 (time TBD), at The Park Church of Christ Chapel, 10600 E. 96th Street South, Tulsa, Oklahoma.
“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” (Psalm 23:6)
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